The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog

🚨A solo hiker was rescued overnight near the summit of Mt. Columbia after enduring dangerously cold temperatures. Chaffee County Search and Rescue North, with help from Flight For Life Colorado, safely guided the hiker down after high winds prevented a helicopter extraction. The hiker, who couldn’t feel their feet, wasn't prepared to spend a night in freezing conditions and faced serious risks of cold-related injuries. This is a reminder to always check weather forecasts and pack the 10 essentials when heading into the high country! Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gHu-W7_i #SAR #MtColumbia #Colorado14ers #WinterHiking #HikingSafety #SearchAndRescue

Looking for a unique way to kick off the holiday season? Golden Gate Canyon State Park has opened its annual lottery for Christmas tree cutting permits, offering 250 lucky people the chance to cut their own tree in one of Colorado's most scenic parks. This opportunity combines tradition, sustainability, and a love for the outdoors. Learn more and apply by Nov. 15: https://lnkd.in/g4APWjCD #SustainableForestry #HolidayTraditions #GoldenGateCanyon #ColoradoOutdoors #ColoradoParksAndWildlife

🌍 Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s 2024 Future Generations Act Report highlights its success in safeguarding Colorado’s natural beauty and enhancing access to the outdoors. From the Keep Colorado Wild Pass generating $62 million to expanded grants for trails and wildlife protection, CPW is creating sustainable outdoor experiences for all. Learn more about CPW’s ongoing efforts to secure Colorado’s outdoor legacy: https://lnkd.in/gTFTdtxr #Conservation #Sustainability #PublicLands #ColoradoOutdoors #CPW #FutureGenerationsAct

FAQ Friday: Can You Still Summit a 14er in November? 🌨️ Yes, you can—but it requires preparation! With snow on most trails, bring proper winter gear and be aware of avalanche risks. Keep in mind that road and trailhead closures may add significant distance and elevation gain to your climb. 🏔 Who’s ready for a late-season challenge? PS: Send me your FAQ Friday questions, maybe we'll address yours next week! #14ers #LateSeasonSummits #MountainPreparedness

As we get closer to winter, it’s time for a gear check! Cold-weather hiking requires preparation and the right equipment. Here’s our winter essentials checklist: -🥾 Waterproof Boots: Protect against wet and cold with insulted waterproof boots to keep feet dry. -🧦 Insulated Layers: Look for insulated jackets, gloves, and merino wool base layers and liner socks. -❄️ Traction Devices: Snow and ice can be dangerous; microspikes and trek poles make a difference. -🛰️ Garmin InReach: Winter brings new navigation challenges. Be prepared with GPS & SOS tools. -🔦 Headlamp: Days are shorter, so always carry a headlamp just in case, along with extra batteries. -⛺️ Emergency Shelter: Bring an emergency bivy or shovel to dig a snow cave for wilderness survival. What’s your top winter gear item? Share it with us! #WinterHiking #GearCheck #MountainPreparedness

Even small litter like wrappers or micro-trash affects wildlife and the beauty of our trails. Let’s keep our 14ers pristine—pack it in, pack it out! ♻️ I always designate one of my zippered pockets for trash and add anything I find during my hike to it. When I get home, I empty it all into the garbage. How do you ensure you pack out all your garbage from hikes? #LeaveNoTrace #ProtectOurTrails #KeepItClean

Downhill hikers should yield to those going uphill! This courtesy makes the climb easier for those pushing toward the summit. Let’s keep the trails safe and friendly. #TrailEtiquette #MountainManners #HikingCommunity

Get ready, Colorado: More snow is headed our way! The ski resorts are going to love this. See the Forecast: https://lnkd.in/gk3BgQvM #ColoradoNews #ColoradoStorm #WinterWeather #ColoradoSnowstorm

With temperatures dropping, hypothermia is a real concern for late-season hikers. Knowing the signs and prevention steps can save lives. Here’s what to look for and how to stay safe: 🔍 Know the Signs: Shivering, clumsiness, confusion, and slurred speech are all signs of hypothermia. 🧤 Pack Smart: Include an emergency blanket or insulated jacket, and bring hand warmers for extra warmth. 💧 Stay Dry: Wet clothing can cause body heat loss 25 times faster than dry clothes, so waterproof layers are essential. Have you or someone you know experienced hypothermia while hiking? Tell us your story and what you learned. #SafetyFirst #MountainSafety #FallHiking

🌲 Fall Trail Closures: Why They Matter for Colorado’s Public Lands 🍂 With fall in full swing, many of Colorado’s trails close for seasonal reasons, but these closures play a vital role in protecting wildlife habitats and preserving the trails we love. 🦌 Whether it’s elk migration or prepping trails for winter use, respecting these closures ensures the sustainability of our public lands. 🔍 How to Stay Informed: - Visit local land management websites (U.S. Forest Service, BLM, Colorado Parks & Wildlife). - Use trail apps like COTREX to check current conditions. - Follow your favorite parks and trails for real-time updates. When we understand and respect these closures, we contribute to the long-term health of Colorado’s wilderness. Let’s do our part to support conservation and responsible recreation! 🌄 #TrailClosures #ColoradoOutdoors #PublicLands #Sustainability #Conservation #ResponsibleRecreation